Home to more than 1,500 animals belonging to 147 species from all over the world, the 42-hectare Doha Zoo represents a miniature animal kingdom and offers a great opportunity to see some of the region’s desert creatures as well as the more traditional zoo animals.

New species are regularly introduced through a number of exchange programs that the management has set up with other zoos around the world, helping the zoo to keep a curb on surplus animals of any specific breed while adding to the diversity of species on exhibit.

Located out of town on Al Furousiya Street, almost opposite the Racing & Equestrian Club, Doha Zoo is in an attractive landscaped setting, where visitors can combine the pleasures of a picnic with an educational and fun day out for the children.

There is a large children’s play area as well as a cafeteria. Opening hours are 8 am to noon and 2:30 pm to 7:30 pm daily; the zoo is closed on Friday mornings. School groups are welcome in the mornings. Tuesday afternoons are for ladies and children only (boys must be under 9 years); Wednesday afternoons are reserved for families; on other afternoons, the zoo is open to the general public.